With Stephen Gleeson (broken foot) and Luke Chadwick (knee ligament damage) out for several weeks, Robinson is keen to bolster his squad in preparation for another promotion tilt in 2013.

Back-to-back home defeats to struggling Walsall and in-form Coventry over Christmas have seen the Dons fall out of the play-off places and Robinson is eager to tie up a deal for the 27-year-old, who has made just three appearances for Brighton this season, as soon as possible.

"He was one of the best players in this league a few years ago, he's an exceptional talent," Robinson told the media following Saturday's 3-2 loss to Coventry.

"We can't confirm the deal but we're in talks and the two clubs are talking and doing the best to make it happen, and he wants to be here. Hopefully we'll have him for the Notts County game (on New Year's Day)."

Robinson added: "We look weak in the centre of midfield at the moment. It's hard when you've only got players who haven't played a lot this season. I want to get players in before I send players out, but I've got to worry about the budget."

One player who could be on his way out of stadium:mk is Jabo Ibehre. The striker returned from his three-month loan spell at Colchester on Friday and is set to meet Robinson to discuss his future.

"We will see how it goes with Jabo," said the Dons boss. "We need to make some leeway to get things sorted. I'm having a meeting with Jabo on Monday to talk about things."

till I suppose it still gives him at least another year in the job. By the time it comes around , he can always make up another excuse. First it was 3 months , then a year .....Next year ? Whats his excuse with Van Persie ?